Turkish Culture

Unique Crafts & Shopping

Istanbul alone is at the vanguard of the global shopping culture, with bustling bazaars and colorful marketplaces appealing to every taste. But beyond the irresistible charm of the City of the World’s Desire, you will find hidden nuggets of excellent stores and stalls in every destination you are visiting in Turkey. The main essence of the crafts and shopping in Turkish culture is all about the artistry that has been brewed on the rich lands of Anatolia for centuries.

When in Istanbul, the must-visit place for the ultimate crafts scene is the Grand Bazaar. It works whether your shopping style is luxury or on the more bohemian side. Most of what you will see in jam-packed quaint little shops are manufactured, but their origins go back to the most valued hand-crafted items in Turkish history. Ottoman fashion finds soul in the intricate jewelry, while older traditions come in glittery lamps, rustic antiques, and dazzling rugs. You can find these more authentic items in the local shops of Cappadocia, as well. The highest quality Turkish kilims weaved rugs meet customers at great deals.

Don’t spend all your money on fashion and home decor. Turkey’s edible delights pop out at every corner and give travelers a sensory overload. The most iconic ones are Turkish delight, the bitter and aromatic Turkish coffee, organic olive oil from the fertile Aegean region, and some ready-to-go desserts such as baklava. For spices, head to the exotic Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. The best spices of the Middle East and Levant end up here. A visit to the modern shops of Balat and Galata are also very rewarding to get a taste of Istanbul’s contemporary artistry scene.

Festivals & Events

“Turkey has a great selection of annual and seasonal festivals that will fill your insides with warm feelings—it all depends on your taste and when you are traveling.”

Thanks to the contemporary evolutions in Turkish culture, there is a joyous event happening on every corner all the time, especially on the Mediterranean coast and in Istanbul. These are great for making your night memorable. As for annual festivals, they are the driving force of Turkish culture. Eid el-Fitr, or the Sugar Feast as Turkish people call it, is a time of giving back and celebrating life. Children are not the only ones to receive sweets! You will have enough Turkish baklava and delights for one life. The Persian New Year, Newruz, is similar to this in size and spirit. If you are traveling on March 21, celebrate the coming of spring and experience Turkey’s Central Asian heritage.

One of the cultural events that are tourist-pleasers is Istanbul Tulip Festival which will make the Dutch jealous. These tulips are of some of the highest quality in the world. Tulips have had cultural significance for Turkey since the Ottoman Empire. Take away what you can from the cultural background of this refreshing event and enjoy the bewitching odor in the lovely Emirgan Park. Another event taking hails Turkey’s natural beauty is Cappadocia Balloon Festival, which takes travelers on a magical journey in the air in July. Hot air balloons float over the mystical fairy chimneys of Goreme for a few days.

When it comes to modern arts, music, and theater, there is no place in Turkey that does it better than Istanbul. You can fill a free evening with stunning jazz or classical music shows, or masterful plays brought to the stage by Turkey’s most talented. There is always room for spontaneity in this electrifying city.